New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has strongly rejected reports claiming that the Centre was considering imposing a tax or surcharge on foreign travel amid rising global economic pressure and fuel costs. He termed the reports “totally false” and assured citizens that the government has no plans to place restrictions on overseas travel.
The clarification came after media reports suggested that the government was discussing a temporary cess or surcharge on international travel to manage the economic impact of the ongoing West Asia conflict and rising crude oil prices. The reports triggered widespread discussion on social media, with many users expressing concern over possible additional financial burdens on travellers.
Responding publicly on social media platform X, Modi said, “This is totally false. Not an iota of truth in this. There is no question of putting such restrictions on foreign travel.” He further added that the government remains committed to improving “Ease of Doing Business” and “Ease of Living” for citizens.
The controversy surfaced days after the Prime Minister appealed to citizens to conserve fuel and foreign exchange reserves by reducing unnecessary fuel consumption and avoiding non-essential overseas trips. During a programme in Telangana earlier this week, Modi urged people to adopt responsible consumption habits amid global instability caused by tensions in West Asia.
According to reports, the earlier speculation was linked to concerns over rising crude oil prices and increasing import costs due to the ongoing conflict involving Iran, Israel and the United States. Global energy markets have remained volatile, putting pressure on fuel-importing nations like India.
Soon after Modi’s clarification, the media outlet that initially reported the claim withdrew the story and expressed regret over the inaccuracy.